Public officials have moved to criminalise the use of “foul and abusive
language” around Salford Quays

Human rights group Liberty has challenged a local council over its moves to criminalise the use of “foul and abusive language” on public streets.

Salford City Council introduced a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in August making it against the law to swear in an area of Salford Quays - location of the BBC's Media City, the Lowry theatre and the Imperial War Museum North.

Liberty has objected to the order on the grounds that its excessively vague wording could have a chilling effect on freedom of expression.

Rosie Brighouse, Legal Officer for Liberty, said: “This is a staggering example of the misuse of a Public Space Protection Order – so vaguely worded it’s impossible for anybody to know whether they’re in danger of breaking the law.

"The right to say what we want should not be restricted at the whim of council officials, able to issue fixed penalty notices on the basis of a poorly defined legal order. Without the freedom to offend, real freedom of expression cannot exist.”

A spokesman for Salford Council told Manchester Evening News it would discuss Liberty's concerns with them - adding that it was "not going to apologise for using national legislation to help Salford residents when their lives are being made a misery".

The council also highlighted the results of a public consultation in which 94% of respondents agreed that "causing general disturbance including being abusive to other persons, using foul language, being rowdy and inconsiderate" should be banned in the area.

Mark Thomas Photo: Steve Ullathorne

Comedian and activist Mark Thomas, who is working with Liberty on the issue, is scheduled to perform at the Lowry theatre next week, and plans to "encourage his audience to join him in a number of artistic and political activities after the show in the area outside."

Liberty says it "understands that Mr Thomas has prepared a list of words which he may wish to use and which he intends to send to Salford City Council to seek specific guidance on whether or not they will breach the PSPO."